SPICY TOFU NUT BURGERS

Spicy Grilled Tofu gives these veggie burger patties a kick of flavour that’s often missing with a tofu-based patty. The nuts add substance and texture and the zucchini and carrot keep them moist. Chilling the patties before cooking does help them firm up, so make them at least a few hours ahead of cooking, if you have the time. Add other favourite burger garnishes as you wish.

4 le over Spicy Grilled Tofu Skewers

1 small zucchini, cut into chunks

1 small carrot, cut into chunks

⁄ tsp (4 mL) salt

1 cup (250 mL) nuts (walnuts, pecans, cashews and/or almonds)

⁄ cup (125 mL) quick-cooking rolled oats or dry bread crumbs, approx.

⁄ cup (60 mL) mayonnaise

1 to 2 tsp (5 to 10 mL) Sriracha or other hot sauce Canola oil

4 so hamburger buns

Lettuce leaves

4 to 8 slices tomato

Remove tofu from skewers and discard skewers. Place tofu in a food processor with zucchini, carrot and salt. Pulse until vegetables are finely chopped. Add nuts and pulse until mixture is fairly smooth with just small pieces. Transfer to a bowl.

Add about half of the oats, stirring until moistened, then gradually add more just until mixture holds its shape well when squeezed and is just slightly sticky. Shape into 4 patties, about ⁄ inch (1 cm) thick and place on a baking sheet or flat plate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or for up to 1 day (they get firmer the longer you chill them).

Preheat barbecue grill to medium, if using.

Stir mayonnaise with Sriracha, to taste, in a small bowl.

To cook on the stovetop, heat a large nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil skillet. Add patties, in batches as necessary, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, turning once, for about 5 minutes per side or until well browned and hot in the centre. To barbecue, place a nonstick grilling sheet or oiled piece of foil onto grill. Place patties on sheet and grill, turning once, for about 7 minutes per side or until well browned and hot inside.

Toast buns lightly, if desired. Spread spicy mayonnaise on buns, top with tofu patties, lettuce and tomato.

Serves 4